Maternity care package and checklist: what to have at home before the birth

The maternity care package: what it is and where it comes from

The maternity care package (kraampakket) is a box of medical and care items you'll need during and after the birth. If you have supplementary insurance, you'll usually receive it automatically once you've reported your pregnancy to your health insurer — do this in good time, so it actually arrives in time. The package isn't included in the basic insurance.

It typically contains:

• Maternity pads — thicker and longer than regular sanitary pads.
• Bed protectors/mats — to protect your bed and furniture.
• Extra hydrophilic cloths.
• A hot water bottle with cover.
• Vaseline and cotton swabs.
• Often also: hand gel for visitors, disinfectant, and a thermometer for the baby.

Set the package out in good time — around week 36, somewhere you can easily reach it, for example next to the bed. If you're giving birth at home, having the maternity package in the house is a standard part of the preparation your midwife will go through with you.

What else you'll want to have ready yourself

The official package is the basis, but there's more to think about:

• A raised bed or bed risers. Bending down all week is tiring for both you and your maternity carer — a raised bed makes a noticeable difference.
• Enough clean (baby) clothes, nappies and washcloths for the first few days, so you don't have to go shopping halfway through the maternity week.
• Enough food in the house, or something arranged for the first few days — family, friends, or a meal delivery service. Nobody wants to be cooking during the maternity week.
• A list of phone numbers within reach: your midwife, GP and maternity care organisation.
• Clear some space for your maternity carer to work — think of a tidy workspace in the kitchen and bathroom.

What you don't necessarily need to buy

It's tempting to buy everything on a full layette checklist, but not everything is needed for everyone. Your maternity carer will tell you exactly what's useful for your situation during the intake interview — feel free to ask, rather than blindly working through a long list. Also read When should you arrange maternity care? for how that intake interview fits into the planning.

In short

• You usually get the maternity care package automatically through your supplementary insurance — report your pregnancy in good time.
• Set it out around week 36, within easy reach.
• Also think about a raised bed, enough clean clothes, food arranged, and important phone numbers within reach.
• Not sure exactly what you need? Discuss it at the intake interview with your maternity carer.